Charter Day 2022

from Bristolienses Spring 2022 Issue 62

In Memoriam

Charter Day 2022 Charter Day 2022

80th Annual Charter Day Service

March 17 2022

Was it really four years ago that we last assembled in Bristol Cathedral to celebrate the school’s founding? This was Jaideep Barot’s first appearance at the Cathedral for Charter Day. The weather upon arrival was spring like, daffodils abounded on clothing and there was a cheerful buzz all round.

With organist Nigel Nash in his customary full-on mode the scene was set. The headmaster, OB Graham Tomlin (Bishop of Kensington) and Deputy Lord Mayor ( Cllr. Andrew Varney) proceeded up the main aisle with Canon Nicola Stanley. Nicola gave us a fulsome welcome, mentioning that this was the first time in over two years that she had seen the Cathedral full.

The hymns were “All creatures of our God and King,” “I vow to thee my country” and “Guide me O thou great Redeemer.” Who could fail to be moved by those, all sung with gusto by choir and congregation. Jasleen Singh, Head of School, gave the first reading and Adam RashidThomas, Deputy Head of School,

the second. The Headmaster led the prayers.

Bishop Graham – clearly a Bristol City fan - gave the address. He began by asking the question : “Why do you go to school?” In his experience one has different answers depending on what age one is at during schooldays. He quoted a German philosopher who believed health, wealth and an attractive school were all means to an end. Referencing the school motto Ex Spinis Uvas, Graham examined the message of the second reading (Matthew 7) which speaks of grapes from thorns, good fruit and bad fruit. The founders of BGS, Nicholas and Robert Thorne, were wealthy merchants who had been involved in the slave trade yet created something good that continues to this day. In making judgements he emphasised the importance of looking at the inside and not just the outside appearance. He focused on the

deeper, less measurable, more intangible ”character.” His role model to follow was Jesus Christ to build character. He ended by praying for us and the school.

The service concluded with the traditional rendition of the school song fortissimo, Quot Quot full throated. The Bishop’s blessing ended the service.

Guests joined the headmaster, staff and prefects in the Chapter House for tea, cakes and conversation. How we had missed this experience. Sumus Bristolienses.